Albany, N.Y., Jun 14, 2004 / 12:00 am (CNA).- The Episcopal Diocese of Albany has voted to join the Anglican Communion Network, which opposes the ordination of homosexual priests, reported the Times Union.

The vote was ratified June 12 by a majority of Episcopal clergy and lay people from 19 New York counties during the diocese's annual convention.

The Anglican Communion Network was established as a national organization last year, after the appointment of Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church, the U.S. branch of Anglicanism.

Diocese leaders said the vote is not a break from the national Episcopal Church.